LAX: Gators defeat Villanova 18-8, Kavanagh sets program record

Villanova, PA – Freshman Shannon Kavanagh set a program record with 12 draws controlled while Lindsey Ronbeck scored five goals to lead Florida past Villanova 18-8.

Villanova actually took an early 1-0 lead less than a minute into the game when Christine Graziano scored an unassisted goal. The Wildcats’ lead didn’t last long though. Sydney Pirreca scored just sixteen seconds later to tie the contest. The Gators went on a 10-1 run to take control of the game with 11:45 to play in the opening half.

The Gators defense stood tall in the contest. Florida took eight free-position shots, while only allowing four for Villanova. Florida forced Villanova into 22 turnovers on the contest.

Ronbeck finished with a team high six points while Shayna Pirreca added four (two goals, two assists). Sydney Pirreca netted three goals while Grace Haus, Madisyn Kittell, each added two scores (along with Shayna Pirreca).

Kavanagh broke the draw control record that Mollie Stevens (11) set in 2017.

Florida improves to 10-3 overall and 5-0 in Big East play. The Gators have now won 27 straight conference games. Florida will face Marquette on Saturday at 12:00 PM at Dizney Stadium.

Team Stats:

GATORS

VILLANOVA

SHOTS

37

21

SOG

25

14

SAVES

6

7

DRAW CONTROLS

17

11

TURNOVERS

19

22

What’s Next:

The Gators will take on Marquette in a showdown of undefeated teams in Big East play. Marquette (9-4, 5-0) defeated Vanderbilt 13-11 on Sunday. The game is slated for Saturday at noon at Dizney Stadium in Gainesville.